The name Rupert has its origins in the Germanic languages, deriving from the elements "hrod" meaning "fame" and "berht" meaning "bright". It emerged during the Middle Ages, with early forms like "Rodbertus" and "Ruadberht". The name was particularly popular among the Franks and Anglo-Saxons.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name comes from a 7th-century Frankish nobleman named Rupert of Salzburg, who later became the patron saint of the city. He played a significant role in establishing Christianity in the region and is credited with founding the Benedictine monastery of St. Peter's in Salzburg.

Another notable figure was Rupert, Count of Nassau, who lived from around 1075 to 1124. He was a German nobleman and crusader who participated in the First Crusade and later became the ruler of the Principality of Galilee in the Kingdom of Jerusalem.

In England, the name gained prominence with Rupert of the Rhine, also known as Prince Rupert of the Rhine (1619-1682), a renowned military commander and nephew of King Charles I. He played a crucial role in the English Civil War, leading the Royalist cavalry forces.

Rupert Brooke (1887-1915) was an English poet and soldier, renowned for his idealistic war sonnets and his association with the Georgian poets. He tragically died during World War I while serving in the British Mediterranean Expeditionary Force.

Another notable bearer of the name was Rupert Murdoch (born 1931), the Australian-American media mogul, and businessman who founded News Corp, one of the world's largest media conglomerates. He has had a significant influence on the global media landscape.